Autumn Healthcare

Autumn is in the air, and now is the perfect time to look ahead and take steps towards protecting your health for the coming winter.

According to Chinese medicine, autumn is the season to pay attention to your Lungs and respiratory system, and you can use this opportunity to build up your immune function and prevent winter coughs and colds.

With the temperature falling and the days growing shorter, autumn is also a great time to initiate healthy habits which will keep you feeling physically and mentally strong well into the long winter months.

Autumn Healthcare

With grey skies above and a chill in the air, it is easy to fall into bad habits at this time of year. However, there are several simple steps you can take to stay well and keep your energy levels stable this autumn.

Spend Time Outdoors

It may be tempting to curl up on the couch with a blanket, but at this time of year it is really important to get outdoors and make the most of the daylight.

Take a walk during your lunch break, and use the weekends to take advantage of the city’s many green spaces. One of my favourite autumn activities is collecting blackberries and the other fruits that the hedgerows have to offer at this time of year. There is something so satisfying about gathering your own food, and these vitamin-packed goodies can be enjoyed straight away or frozen for later on in the year.

Why not take a relaxing stroll along Birmingham’s many miles of canal to dose up on vitamin D, stretch your legs and find a tasty snack along the way?

Wrap Up Warm

Autumn weather can be changeable, with warm sunshine one minute and icy rain the next. Be sure not to get caught out by carrying plenty of layers and an umbrella whenever you go outside.

According to Chinese medicine, exposure to wind and cold is one of the major causes of colds and flu. Your neck is particularly susceptible, so a scarf or hooded top is a must at this time of year. And if you do get caught in a shower, be sure to dry yourself properly afterwards. Sitting around in damp clothes is not only uncomfortable, but can also have a negative impact on your health.

Eat White Foods

Chinese medicine theory states that the best foods to protect your Lungs are white and have a slightly pungent flavour. This includes foods like onions, garlic and radish which encourage good circulation of qi and prevent stagnation.

Moistening foods are also said to benefit the Lungs, and tofu and juicy pears are ideal. Honey is another excellent autumn food due to its sweet, nourishing properties and its ability to relieve sore throats and coughs.

Get Enough Sleep

With shorter daylight hours, we tend to feel more tired in the autumn and winter. Listen to your body and go to bed when you are sleepy. This may involve adjusting your normal bedtime by an hour or two, but it will ensure that you have enough energy to carry out your daily tasks and will improve your overall health and well-being too.

Have a “Seasonal Tune-Up” Treatment

Sometimes it can take your body a while to catch up with the change of the seasons, and now is the perfect time for a seasonal tune-up with acupuncture. We will select points traditionally used to support Lung function and immunity, as well as addressing any other symptoms you may have.

Appointments are available in the multibed clinic for just £25. Contact us for more information or if you would like to book in.